Mental health support in Australia: how a mental health care plan works
How to access mental health support in Australia: what a GP mental health treatment plan is, how many sessions are subsidised, free services and how to start the conversation.
Morisset Doctors Health Journal · · 4 min readAround two in five Australians will experience a mental health condition in their lifetime, and asking for help is a sign of strength. If you are feeling anxious, low, overwhelmed or not yourself, there are several pathways to support, and your GP is a good place to start.
Signs it might be time to reach out
Everyone has hard days, but it may be time to seek support if you have felt down, worried or irritable for more than two weeks, are sleeping or eating differently, have lost interest in things you usually enjoy, or are finding it hard to manage work, study or relationships.
You do not need a diagnosis or a crisis to ask for help. Early support can make things more manageable.
What a mental health treatment plan is
A GP mental health treatment plan, often called a mental health care plan, is a structured plan your GP prepares with you after an assessment. It sets out your goals and the support that may help, and can include a referral to a psychologist, social worker or occupational therapist under the Better Access initiative.
With a plan, eligible people can receive Medicare rebates for a set number of individual sessions each calendar year. Your GP can explain the current number of sessions, how reviews work and whether there are out-of-pocket costs with the provider you choose.
Preparing for the appointment
Book a longer appointment if possible, as there is a lot to talk about. It can help to jot down what you have been experiencing, how long it has been going on and how it affects your day.
You may be asked to complete a short questionnaire. Bring a support person if that would help you feel comfortable.
Free and low-cost services
There are free services that do not require a plan. Medicare Mental Health centres and phone services offer support, and Head to Health (1800 595 212) can help you find services. Young people aged 12 to 25 can access headspace.
Crisis and support lines are available 24 hours a day: Lifeline 13 11 14, Beyond Blue 1300 22 4636, and Suicide Call Back Service 1300 659 467. In an emergency, call Triple Zero (000).
Looking after your wellbeing day to day
Regular movement, time outdoors, connection with people you trust, good sleep habits, limiting alcohol and setting small achievable goals all support mental wellbeing. Lake Macquarie's foreshore walks and parks are a great place to start.
Be patient with yourself. Recovery and change take time, and it is normal for progress to have ups and downs.
Anxiety: more than everyday worry
Anxiety becomes a concern when worry is persistent, hard to control and interferes with daily life. Physical symptoms can include a racing heart, tight chest, sweating, stomach upsets and trouble sleeping. Panic attacks can be frightening but are treatable.
Effective approaches for anxiety include psychological therapies such as cognitive behavioural therapy, lifestyle changes and, for some people, medicine. A GP can help you understand the options.
Depression and low mood
Depression is more than feeling sad. It can involve ongoing low mood, loss of interest, changes in appetite and sleep, tiredness, difficulty concentrating and feelings of worthlessness. It can affect anyone, at any age.
Support for depression is often most effective when it combines several approaches, such as talking therapy, physical activity, social connection and, where appropriate, medicine discussed with a doctor.
Supporting someone you care about
If you are worried about someone, let them know you have noticed they do not seem themselves and that you care. Listen without judgement, encourage them to seek support and offer practical help, such as helping them make an appointment.
If you are concerned about someone's immediate safety, stay with them if it is safe to do so and call Triple Zero (000).
Support at Morisset Doctors
Mental health care is part of everyday general practice at Morisset Doctors. You can book online through HotDoc or call reception on (02) 4006 8222. Let reception know you would like a longer appointment to discuss your mental health.
Consultations are bulk billed for eligible patients.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a mental health care plan to see a psychologist?
Not always, but a plan can provide Medicare rebates for sessions with eligible providers.
How many subsidised sessions can I have?
Your GP can explain the current number of Better Access sessions each calendar year.
What if I need help urgently?
Call Lifeline on 13 11 14 any time, or 000 in an emergency.
Book nowBulk billed for eligible patientsThis article provides general health information only and is not a substitute for individual medical advice. Everyone's situation is different. Please book an appointment to discuss your own health. In an emergency, call 000.
